AD&D Greyhawk Adventures: The Temple of Elemental Evil

Game Master Anselth

"Well look at that fancy painting on a rug. How do they do that so well?"

Gnobby has an inspiration. He decides to study the appearance and mannerisms of Rufus and Burne in detail.

You never know when their 'appearance' would be beneficial.

Great start Anselth :D

Otto leads Andre over to the tapestry and points up at the scene. "Well, the warrior in the armor is obviously Rufus, Protector-at-Arms of Hommlett. His axe alone slew half of the brigands, why in fact..." His voice trails off. "Oh, he will tell the story better than I could. His companion with the glowing staff is Burne, His Most Worshipful Mage of Hommlett. Both masters are very dedicated to the protection of the village and its surrounds, I can assure you."

As he finishes, a bell sounds somewhere in the vicinity of the stair that Otto had come down. "Ah good, supper is ready." From the stair, a pair of men appear, dressed plainly, though they carry themselves with the confidence of men with great personal power. Andre is struck by how closely they resemble their avatars on the tapestry they had just been examining. Rufus is well built, though not overly bulky. Burne is similar in build, though younger than one might expect from a mage of his purported power.

As they enter the hall, Burne spreads his arms out. "Welcome, envoys of the Viscount. Our hall and hearth are yours. Please, be seated. I apologize for not meeting you upon your arrival, but you made better time than we expected. Tell me of yourselves and what needs you have." A few dozen men, obviously soldiers, have filtered into the room and are already sitting. Burne motions the companions towards seats near the head of the table. Once they sit, he sits at the head of the table, with Rufus to his right. Plates of venison are set out in front of all. "Please, eat, and tell us your story."

Gnobby looks at the fresh meat with obvious anticipation.

Gnobby speaks up, "Well, I was working for the traveling shows and fell in with a bad crowd. Now I am with this group and we are trying to find the source of problems in the area."

Gnobby winks, "We hear the old moathouse or old gatehouse or some old house is where the evil forces are festering."

"Ferman Galavaine at your service my lords. My father and elder brother fought at the battle of Emridy Meadows. My brother fell. I am here as a simple priest of Heironeous to avenge that loss on the Temple, starting with the return of this banditry."

Galavaine bows with a noble flourish, practised and graceful.

"Sir Andre Girard, formerly of the Theocracy of the Pale, now a knight errant in the Cudgeler's service. I have no ties to the region, certainly not to the extent that Sir Galavaine does, but the Viscount's call seemed divine providence; and so, here I am."

After bowing, Andre seats himself at the table, and his stomach growls as the scent of the roasted meat wafts over him. He begins tucking into the food, wiping away the grease at the corners of his mouth. He listens as Gnobby describes the lead they've heard about at the Moathouse, his mouth too full of meat and potatoes to add anything constructive.

The priest takes a seat near the head of the table across from Gnobby. He eats slowly and with small mouthfuls of venison laying down his cutlery in between each bite.

"Hmm tis a fine old deer that someone hunted here. Wouldst that be yourself Lord Rufus?"

He prepares to make small talk with the knights and soldiers around him, concentrating on his fellow adventurers to ensure they can relax during the meal.

"Do your men prefer the axe, the spear or the sword? What would be the name of your company and how many soldiers at your command here in Hommlett?"

He does partake of the wine, first watering it down and murmuring a few words of prayer to himself. Never forget the blood of the fallen, never remember with pleasure the deaths and power of your hands.

Other companies or strongholds in the area? I believe that there are rangers in the Gnarley Woods do they provide intelligence on these bandits?

Rufus laughs, long and hearty, then speaks for the first time in answer to Sir Galavaine's introduction and query. "Nay, Sir Galavaine. Unfortunately my duties here prevent me from hunting near as oft as I would like. I fear that the one who brought down the deer we sup on is Lietenant Drake, who sits next to Sir Gnome. He motions to the middle aged man of bald pate seated next to Gnobby, whom Sir Galavaine only now notes has a silver eagle adorning his right shoulder. Immediately to his left sits another man with a golden eagle in the same place. When he hefts his goblet to drink, Sir Galavaine is surprised to note that the second man's index and ring fingers are significantly shorter than the others.

"With him sits Captain Erik. He lost his fingers to my axe five years ago this day. Yet he and his remaining company have served faithfully and well."

"We are the Lord Protector's men," The Captain states by way of introduction. "Without formal company title. The eighteen of us are all that remain of a company of bandits that raided the area for months before Rufus and Burne put a stop to it. They spared we survivors of the battle, and took us into their service. We fight with what we have, though each man has his preference."

"Sir Galavaine, I heard tales of your brother's honor and valor at the battle of Emridy Meadows. His loss was grieved by many." Rufus' words seem neither forced nor guided by custom, but genuine and heartfelt.

Burne speaks up again. "Sir Andre, it is always good to see another of the faith. As you have probably noticed, many of the townsfolk still worship the gods of the Druids, though with the completion of the church, I expect the flock to grow." He finishes a bite before continuing. "There are no other groups aligned with Hommlett or Verbobonc that I know of in the area, though the Druids and Rangers of the Gnarley Forest have been known to venture to Hommlett from time to time. If they know anything of the banditry of which you speak, they have not shared it with us."

"The moathouse would indeed be the first place to investigate, if you seek bandits. Its walls still stand, and would provide a more than adequate refuge for bandits or other foul creatures." His face grows dark, apparent anger bubbling just under the cool surface. "They should have pulled it down when they overran it the first time. A stronghold such as that was guaranteed to attract those who wish to garner strength by taking from others. I would be careful should you travel there. Who knows what kind of evil has crept into that outpost."

Andre sips at some watered wine to wash down the food he'd eaten thus far. "[b[From what I know of the Gnarley folk, they would have taken care of any bandits that have threatened the Gnarley. They might not be indifferent to Hommlet's bandit issues, but it would be outside their purview.[/b]

"All signs seem to point to activity once again in the moathouse. We cannot change what was left undone after the Battle of Emridy Meadows - but we can finish what was started. We will head there at first light, and demand the surrender of any brigands within its walls. Those who do not accept our mercy will be put to death, befitting those that transgress against the crown.

"Before that though, I would like to hear the story of how the two of you became the lords of Hommlet. I understand that you were wanderers, like ourselves, for several years before that."

"My name's Podo". "I'm here mainly because you big folk are always losing things, and I happen to be an expert at finding things". "Also sometimes things get stuck closed and won't open good, so I can help with that". "And I'm little and sneaky, so I can find things without being caught". Then with a slight belch, "Excuse me, but when is the main course going to be served"?

Rufus laughs at Podo's introduction. "Indeed, Podo! Your people excel at such things! However, I can assure you that neither Burne nor myself has lost anything that needs finding."

He glances at Burne and begins to speak. "Burne and I started out much like you. We sought out bandits and monsters with some companions, searching for fortune in our skill at arms. Greater skill led us to search out greater danger. When word came of a force of bandits raiding the lands around Verbobonc, we traveled there to assist in wiping them out."

"The battle was short and bloody, but our pay and share of the spoils was considerable. We equipped a small party in search of a monster rumoured to be holed up in the Kron Hills. We found what we were looking for, and defeated the evil beast. By that time, however, years of travelling were beginning to wear on us. Hommlett offered a quiet area to settle."

Burne continues, "We are not Lords of Hommlett, not truly. While we raised this tower and are financing the building of the castle you must have seen, we do this to protect our home and our neighbors. Rufus also serves as captain of the town militia, though it is rumored that the Viscount is eying Rufus for some greater position."

"So does the moathouse have an owner in absentia or is it part of your land? I mean if this place is a stronghold then perhaps we can benefit from its position in the future. Cut it out and cleanse it, not so much lancing a boil as peace from evil."

Galavaine finishes the course, despite leaving his plate half full. He takes another sip of watered wine and waits.

"It is not part of our lands, it lies some 15 miles to the east. I doubt it is much of a stronghold anymore. It was sacked some ten years ago, and unless the occupants have managed to transport stone and other building materials into those marshes unnoticed, it is unlikely that the moathouse's structure has been maintained, much less repaired."

Burne pauses thoughtfully. "That does not mean your idea is without merit, however, Sir Galavaine. When you have completed clearing out the moathouse of its infestations, please let us know what the condition of the building is. We will either raize it completely to the ground, or repair it and use it against those that would threaten the region."

"In deed, my lord Burne. For such an action, is there ought thou can provide as assistance? I wonder if you have elixirs, potions or the like tucked away for such a task."

"Unfortunately, no. We have not maintained any potions, though I could provide you a few vials of holy oil."

He excuses himself and returns a few minutes later. "Here are two vials, hopefully you will not find enemies which requires their use." He then produces a roll of parchment "This may also prove useful. Unfortunately, this is all I can provide to assist you at this time."

The scroll contains 2 castings of Burning Hands and one of Feather Fall.

Gnobby holds out his hands for the scroll.

"Thank you my good lords, for the food, company, and advice. This council of war was a good idea. Podo and I wonder what time is the typical dinner hour here? We should compare notes again in the future over a good meal."

Andre listens to the description Burne and Rufus give to the moathouse. "If there be bandits within its walls, we shall purge their menace and scatter them into the Gnarley. The rangers there should clean up whatever escapes. Of course, redemption is always preferred to slaughter." Andre nods to Captain Erik in recognition of his work. "Spending your life paying off your misdeeds purifies the soul for the next life. The pits of Hell are filled with those that waited too late to repent their wicked ways."

Rufus chuckles a bit at Gnobby, then looks to Andre. "May the Cudgeler look over you in your endeavors. We look forward to meeting with you again when you return."

Rufus and Burne both rise, the audience clearly at an end. Otto appears to usher the group to the door. "The hour grows late, my lords. May safe travels greet you until you are able to return."

Sir Galavaine takes the two vials of holy water, "Many thanks again. Tis a fine table you set, my lords. I shall remember such graciousness. We may be novices with little experience and too many fine words but everyone has to start somewhere. I have faith in us and the fires of battle will forge us into a company to follow your example."

The priest bows to the soldiers, Rufus and Burne before heading back to the Inn of the Welcome Wench after the meal ends.

He murmurs the words of an old adage, "be proud of now, be brave always."

As the group make their way back from the Tower to the Inn, Pettry speaks up for the first time since entering the tower. "Those two seemed pretty powerful. I would think the town itself is safe with them and their men guarding it."

Darkness has fallen over the town, and the smell of cookfires and food mingle in the streets. If not for the group's knowledge of the events nearby, it would seem an idyllic, pastoral scene.

The trip to the Inn of the Welcome Wench is uneventful, but from the sounds coming from inside, the crowd has grown considerably from when the group left. Entering the doors, they note that almost every table is taken, but Podo manages to spot Tarmin at a table for six, sitting with a larger man that none of the group recognizes.

Waving her friends over, Tarmin says "Evening friends, how went the visit to the castle?"
Seeing their collective curious glances at her companion, she bids him to rise and says "This is Jozan. He wishes to contribute his sword arm to our cause. What say you? "

Gnobby smiles upon seeing Tarmin again, "I feel better about people when Andre has given them his FULL attention and likes what he sees."

Andre nods as he listens to Pettry's assessment. "Aye, I would agree with you. The Flanaess needs more men such as Rufus and Burne - the forces of evil would shudder if we had a thousand like them."

Once back at the Inn of the Welcome Wench, Andre seats himself across from the stranger, shaking the man's hand before sitting down. "Jozan, is it? We could always use another swordsman, for I expect we will meet armed resistance soon enough. But first..." Andre narrows his eyes and opens his senses, peering into the man's soul - searching for the presence or absence of evil. Men could lie about what they believed in their hearts, but none could hide their truth from the Cudgeler himself.

Jozan rises to leave. "I do not wish to impose upon you and your friends. May you have a pleasant evening."

Raising an eyebrow at Jozan's abrupt departure, Tarmin waits until he is out of earshot then leans back in her chair as if relaxed in the company of friends and says low enough so that only the table can hear "What did your righteous senses tell you , Andre?"

Andre's face grows serious as he senses the darkness within Jozan. "My senses tell me that there is a sickness amidst Hommlett's idyllic nature. Jozan harbors evil within his heart. Given the troubles facing the town, I find it unlikely he is acting alone. Perhaps it would prove valuable if he were discreetly followed..."

Jozan disappears back up the stairs. From what the group has seen of the outside, there's no easy way to the street from up there.

Gnobby motions for Tarmin to bend down and speaks discreetly, "Tarmin, is this the new guest Podo and I were going to thoroughly vet through our own special process of seeing if people are up to no good otherwise known as the rifling through their stuff method?" Gnobby stops the long sentence out of breath.
"I guess Andre's method is a lot quicker."

"Hmm, how unfortunate, another strong arm would have been a boon. It seems he was content to join us, and I for one, should he have had an evil heart, would have wanted him under thumb rather than out of sight. But, your forthrightness seems to have spooked him, Andre." Tarmin says. Stooping to listen to Gnobby, Tarmin rises and nods "Gnobby, you should follow our new "friend" and determine which room he resides. He also may attempt to flee with the knowledge of our presence. Gnobby will be our eyes upstairs, I will watch the back of the inn , I suggest that at least one of our number watch the front of the inn with the rest waiting here in the greatroom. Gnobby, beware, Jozan is at least a strong as I, but with an evil heart,not nearly as tolerant of the small folk. Any improvements on my plan gentlemen ? "

"Good idea Tarmin, and don't worry, I don't stick strong people from the front." With that Gnobby creeps upstairs, picking up a tray and some food along the way.

Gnobby creeps up the stairs, moving as quickly as he can while still keeping fairly quiet. He reaches the top landing, and it opens onto a long hallway with several closed doors. Unfortunately, his quarry is nowhere in sight.

As Tarmin steps out into the night, she can see lights in several of the windows on the second floor. However, no figures are visible to her eyes as she scans the glass for Jozan.

"Unless stealthiness is the key then we shouldst keep our guard up. Tarmin you should have company. Thine servant here is happy to watch and wait outside. I may not be an elf but protection is only a matter of prudence."

Sir Galavaine will accompany Tarmin.

Position by Tarmin.

I can't let evil get away.

Gnobby listens for clues 1d100 ⇒ 91 then starts opening doors as quickly and quietly as he can. He makes sure he has a dagger concealed in one hand under the tray.

Gnobby is unable to hear anything over the din from the common room.

Once Podo realizes that Gnobby is off to check for "lost" things, he sneaks behind him to make sure he doesn't lose what he just found.

1d100 ⇒ 9 Sneaky, sneak, sneak

"Your plan is sound, Tarmin. I shall maintain a vigil over the front of the inn." He rises and walks out into the night air, finding a spot that he can keep an eye on both doors and windows.

Gnobby removes his set of picks and quietly goes to work. 1d100 ⇒ 87

He then knocks boldly and casts a spell using intricate gestures. "Of course I'll see if he is in Rufus."

Gnobby weaves an intricate illusion of Rufus. Where Gnobby stands is just a perfect background of his surroundings.

"Can't a man get some rest? Come back on the morrow!" Gnobby and Podo hear through the door, though the words get louder and a pair of boots appear below the door. A small circle of light appears high up on the door, then disappears again.

The voice is muffled by the door, but Podo thinks it could belong to the man who just left their table.

At the abrupt departure of the others, Pettry makes his way up the stairs. He stops at the landing, seeing Podo and Gnobby occupying the top of the stair, and not wanting to interfere.

Tarmin strides out into the cool evening air and trots around the inn to the left, hopping over the front yard fence. Crouching low she moves between the inn and the village hall taking up position by the hedge that comes to the back right corner of the Inn, allowing her sight-line along the Inn, all second floor windows in sight, but herself mostly obscured by the hedge. Knocking an arrow, she waits.

"Can't a man get some rest? Come back on the morrow!" The voice is muffled through the door, but as it comes closer, Gnobby notices two boots under the door, and a small circle of light appears in the door, then disappears again. Podo thinks the voice sounds similar to the one belonging to the man that just left their table.

Pettry, having been left at the table, moves cautiously up the stairs, stopping on the landing when he can see Podo and Gnobby on at the top of the stairs, not wanting to get in their way.

Gnobby desperately concentrates on his illusion and motions for Podo to knock on the door again. As Gnobby concentrates he realizes the illusion will have to strike quickly, so he has the phantom Rufus draws a really nasty two handed axe.

As Rufus draws his axe, the door flies open. Jozan stands there, half dressed in a set of banded armor. His bulk blocks the view of his room from Podo and Gnobby. "My Lord Rufus, there is no need for violence, I was merely preparing to travel out in search of a band of wolves I had heard was hunting the fields at night!" His eyes widen as he ses the two little folk with Rufus, but maintains his composure. "What can I do for you?"