Aha! I knew I'd seen that DC 15 Climb check somewhere! It's in the Jump skill description.
"If your check succeeds, you land on your feet at the far end. If you fail the check by less than 5, you don’t clear the distance, but you can make a DC 15 Reflex save to grab the far edge of the gap. You end your movement grasping the far edge. If that leaves you dangling over a chasm or gap, getting up requires a move action and a DC 15 Climb check."
No worries though, I won't go back or anything! But I do still need a Jump check for the Leap Attack! Also, your attack modifier should only be +10 (see the outline of my breakdown in the Discussion tab).
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
A bit cold, with cloudy skies and periods of light rain.
Current time is around 11 a.m.
-------------------------------------------------
Reonnyn again swings his rapier at the monk towering over him, striking once [8 damage] and distracting him from seeing Morgrym closing in with unbelieve speed, the padded chain smacking him across the back of his head [34 damage] and knocking him to the ground senseless.
The armsmaster again sounds the gong and calls out. The challengers have defeated the champions. This combat is finished!” The door behind him opens and a young woman enters, a wand clutched in her slim hand. She tends to the fallen adventurers first, then the monks, and then the wounded but conscious – healing them of their bruises and other injuries. The trio of monks finally rise to their feet and bow silently at those that defeated them, their faces revealing no emotions save perhaps for a bit of wounded pride.
The talkative monk in the observation deck with Verdan and Zeux nods to himself when the combat is finished and with a silent gesture, leads the two spellcasters down to the arena floor through a passage and then a spiral staircase that soon leads into the chamber through the same door that the healer came through.
With the party reunited and at full health once again, the monk dismisses the armsmaster and the three champions as well as the young healer. When the arena is empty, he again beckons for the adventurers to follow him through the same spiral staircase that Verdan and Zeux had come down, but leads them upward another thirty feet or so, past two more landings until they reach the top where a great double door made of bronze is set into the wall. Opening the doors, the party finds themselves in a room with several cushions offering places to sit as well as an amazing view of the City of Greyhawk and the grounds surrounding the monastery through two massive windows to the right hand side. To the left, a single bronze door leads out of the sitting room - perhaps to private chambers. A dusky-skinned monk with powerful muscles and robes of maroon with black moons embroidered into the silky material sits in the center of the room – a black-lacquered wooden case sits before him. The party’s guide moves to speak briefly into the ear of the monk for a few moments, then bows once and backs out of the room as their host gestures toward the cushions, speaking in a soft voice that is polite and yet has the unmistakable ring of authority. ”Greetings to you all. I am Iquoyan. I have been informed that you defeated the best warriors that our humble monastery has to offer. A feat that none have yet accomplished since the challenge has been offered. Please, accept this as your well-deserved prize.” The monk picks up the box and opens it, revealing a fist-sized ruby that rests upon a velvet cushion inside. “Loram tells me that you might also be interested in assisting the Dark Moon monastery, if he has read your intentions of the balance of good and evil correctly. Would you hear the details of a quest we would offer? You may of course refuse it with no ill will on our part, and know that the gem is already yours, and will have no further bearing in this discussion. Please sit if you would listen to me speak of ancient legends, hidden secrets and terrible betrayals. If nothing else comes of this, you will hear a story known only to a few historians and theologists with a keen interest in the Baklunish god named Zuoken.”
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
When the monks bow, Morrow does his best to return it, quietly stating "That was an impressive fight. I've always felt that a sword was needed. You've shown me better. Thank you!"
Once they have been led up the stairs to the room with the seating Morrow pauses to take in the view of the city. He had never taken to time to view it like this. Before he'd been right down in the streets with the squalor. This was definitely better....
When Iquoyan introduces himself and motions to the seating Morrow takes a seat. He barely glances at the ruby but takes definite interest in the mention of the quest. "Yes, thank you. Your warriors skill was impressive, as my 'nap' on your fighting grounds proved. They didn't even need to dump me into the room below! We had heard mention of a quest of great import. While we have concerns over the Ancient One's interest in the Castle, our original quest there is.... complete. Please tell us your story."
Reonnyn struggles to his feet and nods in reply to the fallen monk's bow, "That was a great contest you treated us to. It was my honor to participate!" He smiles with a twinkle in his eyes.
Once the party has been shown their reward for the contest his eyes widen and he lets out a low whistle, "That gem...I could buy the Green Dragon with that! Certainly a worthy prize!" When Iquoyan mentions his tale Reonnyn's ears perk up and he nods in eagerness. Yes, please do tell your tale. You have nothing to fear should you wish to disclose your secrets to us. We also know the value of keeping secrets!"
I must say your monks kept me in that pit for a long while. Luckily I am faster and a good jumper better perhaps then they anticipated. I am honored by our battle with such worthy adversaries
Morgrym bows in return and follows to the seated place whistling at the fist sized gem and then nodding saying I like a good story and am willing to listen
Meeting up with the combatants, Verdan gives them a once over to make sure all wounds were healed. And then shakes each of their hands and pats their backs. "Praise Pelor, that was a great fight. I do have to admit there were times I feared that I thought that the monks might have taken you. But you all have shown to be made of tougher stuff today."
Seeing in the gem, Verdan is pleased to see such a great reward going to the contestants.
Verdan takes a seat to hear the tail of the monks.
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
A bit cold, with cloudy skies and periods of light rain.
Current time is around 11 a.m.
-------------------------------------------------
Iquoyan glances at Reonnyn when he speaks. “Your choice of words is oddly appropriate to what I would discuss this day.” He murmurs cryptically, but says no more until the group has settled in. “Though I could speak at great length about the history I would relate to you, I will be brief. If you would know more, and if none of you have knowledge that would fill in the gaps, you may feel free to ask.” With that, the monk clears his throat and begins to speak.
“More than a thousand years in the past, a devastating war raged between two empires. You have certainly heard of them both – one being the Suloise and the other the Baklunish. Both sides are said to have boasted resources and weaponry that is unimagined by those that call the lands of the Flanaess our home today. As you also know, if you have any knowledge of this land’s ancient history, this war had no victors. It took only sixty some years for both sides to wipe themselves out in catastrophic fashion – known to scholars today as the Twin Cataclysms. The Suel wizards were said to have acted first, working in concert to manifest the Invoked Devastation upon their enemies. But before the Baklunish Empire was reduced to ashes, they too gathered and launched a counterstrike that resulted in the Rain of Colorless Fire, turning the lands of the Suel into an barren sea of dust that yet lingers to this day.” Iquoyan pauses for a long moment, his eyes distant and mournful as he perhaps considers the awful destruction that took place millennium past. Then he shakes his head sadly and continues.
“During the opening decades of that clash of mighty civilizations, countless heroes and martyrs were spawned. The greatest of these, if you will forgive my bias, was Zuoken. A daring monk of the twilight goddess Xan Yae who, along with thirty eight of the Baklunish Empire’s most skillful martial artists, defended a tactically critical mountain pass from an entire army of Suel invaders. They not only held the pass, but they also destroyed the entire foreign army over the course of three days and three nights, though only one remained standing in the end. Zuoken became a hero of legend, and was called ‘The Survivor’ because of this impossible feat. Eventually, the hero become an immortal demigod once he proved his worthiness through a great series of legendary tests after sailing the Drawmij Ocean to the Pinnacles of the Azor’alq.” Not surprisingly, the monk’s narrative takes on a note of fierce pride and admiration as he speaks of his people’s most famous ancestor. But then his eyes darken and anger tinges his voice as he goes on.
“It was more than a century ago when Zuoken disappeared from the face of the Oerth – no longer manifesting to his followers when called. In the following decades, the Elders of our order learned that the Mad Archmage of Greyhawk transcended mortality himself to become the demigod Zagyg, serving Boccob the Uncaring around this same time. When he was known as Zagig Tragerne, the Mad Archmage captured several demigods and it is believed he somehow used their essence to grant himself divinity. That Zuoken vanished around this same time was viewed by our Elders as no mere coincidence, and the Order of the Dark Moon traveled hundred of leagues from our homeland to found a monastery in this city. Fifteen years ago our order hired an infamous mercenary named Lord Robilar to escort an elite group of masters into the castle in hopes of discovering where Zuoken was being held – for our Elders believed that he must yet be imprisoned in the dungeons below Castle Greyhawk. That he yet lives is beyond doubt, for The Survivor continues to answer prayers and guide our spirits. Though Robilar was known to have played an unwitting part in releasing the demon cambion Iuz and was viewed as a criminal to many, the Elders believed that his knowledge of Castle Greyhawk would serve their purpose well. But nothing more was heard of the expedition, and it was only through months of constant divination that the order learned the monks had all been slain – though Robilar yet lived. When those of our order found him some months later after searching the city, he claimed no knowledge of the mission he’d sworn to take and warned us to leave him be or face dire consequences. Our Elders believed he had simply slain our brothers and sisters then pocketed the fee we had given him – a sum that makes the value of this gem seem paltry by comparison. Their suspicions were confirmed by the actions of Robilar in betraying the Circle of Eight on the Day of Great Signing a few years later, at the end of the Greyhawk Wars.” The dusky hands of the monk have clenched into fists as he finishes speaking, and Iquoyan pauses again, visibly calming himself with effort as he closes his eyes and takes several deep breaths. When his eyes open again, he gazes at each of the adventurers, finally resting upon Verdan.
“Our Elders believe that Robilar has returned to Greyhawk for Riggby’s funeral in the guise of Ricard Damaris’s friend, a man known as Captain Gallancz. They also know that Robilar was the former owner of the Green Dragon Inn, and for that matter still might be to this day. Learn what you can of this Captain Gallancz, confirm for us that he is in truth the despicable Lord Robilar. If you would see evil vanquished as you say, there are none that walk the lands of the Flanaess more evil than he.”
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54
Reonnyn is quiet for a moment as he digests the information provided here. While he had met the Captain only in passing, the news he may actually be the infamous Robilar sent a chill down his spine. It is certainly possible...
Turning to his fellows he nods slowly, "I think this be worth following up on, but we do need to be careful...Robilar is not one to be trifled with! When we return to the Dragon, we can try to befriend him..." here he pauses as an idea flashes in his mind, "OR we could even try to hire him to guide us into Castle Greyhawk! We certainly want to track down that mage we saw, and certainly having the 'Captain' along will let us ferret out his true identity!"
Reonnyn is quiet for a moment as he digests the information provided here. While he had met the Captain only in passing, the news he may actually be the infamous Robilar sent a chill down his spine. It is certainly possible...
Turning to his fellows he nods slowly, "I think this be worth following up on, but we do need to be careful...Robilar is not one to be trifled with! When we return to the Dragon, we can try to befriend him..." here he pauses as an idea flashes in his mind, "OR we could even try to hire him to guide us into Castle Greyhawk! We certainly want to track down that mage we saw, and certainly having the 'Captain' along will let us ferret out his true identity!"
Morrow listens to the history. He'd spent little time learning such details, but had heard highlights of the mentioned events from various things.
"We just returned from the Castle, recovered Ricard's sword that had been stolen.... Perhaps we could speak with him? We could ask Ricard what he knows of recent events around Lord Robilar. Might be good to get his feelings about the man."
"Any idea on how he is disguised? A physical disguise would be hard to maintain for too long. But a magical disguise has pitfalls too. I'm not sure he'd want to stay around us for an extended period of time and risk someone noticing a failure in his disguise."
Verdan taps his chin with a finger as the story concludes.
Finally Verdan asks "Why is your order so sure that Robilar has returned and disguised as this Captain Gallancz? Where did the order come by this information?"
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
A bit cold, with cloudy skies and periods of light rain.
Current time is around 11 a.m.
-------------------------------------------------
Iquoyan speaks in response. “Be careful in dealing with Captain Gallancz, he is not to be trusted. I will tell you that in truth I know not the secrets of the Elders - nor will I ask, for that would be disrespectful. But know that they have never been wrong, and none here doubt their pronouncement. Still, I know that you may harbor doubts, and that is why we ask you to verify his true identity. Whether the disguise be magical or not, I do not know. We ask you to confront Lord Robilar and bring him to justice once you are convinced. If you would see evil brought low as Verdan has proclaimed, we ask you to do this for us. For you are true champions as none we have seen before.”
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54
Reonnyn pauses in thought here. "Perhaps there is more to the enigma to the good Captain than we have seen so far. Mayhaps this is some fell magicks we have not seen before? In any event I say we strike up a conversation with him...I am getting quite thirsty now!"
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
A bit cold, with cloudy skies and periods of light rain.
Current time is around midday.
-------------------------------------------------
Iquoyan stands and bows as the party prepares to leave. “You have our sincerest thanks for looking into this matter.” He says simply, then moves to the door and opens it so that the adventurers may leave, escorted by a pair of stoic monks until they reach the grounds outside the main doors.
Returning to the Inn of the Green Dragon, they find that that the usual lunch crowd is well established already, and though the true rowdiness won’t begin until the sun begins its descent late this afternoon, the patrons of the infamous inn are already gearing up. The party spots Ricard at his usual place behind the bar, cleaning mugs and pouring drinks while laughing and trading jokes and stories with his clientele.
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54
Walking back to the Green Dragon Inn, Verdan start a conversation on how we are going to discover the truth of Captain Gallancz.
"I do not have any spell ready that could assist us, And not sure if we want to spend good coin on a scroll or some other magical means to discover the truth of this riddle? I am thinking that he may have a way to defeat minor magics that would see through a disguise. Do any of you have any ideas?"
Reonnyn pauses to consider the priests words here. "No I do not believe magic will aid us here. If the monks speak truly, and I have no reason to doubt their words, then The 'Captain' is indeed the good Lord Robilar! Remember this is the man who helped engineer the Circle of Eight's destruction, not to mention the Greyhawk Wars! Still," he considers this for a moment before continuing, "We don't know WHY he has chosen to disguise himself and risk coming to Greyhawk. The only plausible explanation that would entice him to risk capture are the Ruins of the castle! It's the only explanation that makes sense! I say we lay a trap for the Captain here, with the Castle as bait...just spread a rumor we intend to strike forth back to the ruins in the right ears...and he will come running to spring our trap!"
"I think first we might talk with Ricard. He might have knowledge of where 'Captain Gallancz' is. I mean, there's no point spreading rumors if the target isn't here anymore."
Responding to Reonnyn "Then again Reonnyn, Lord Robilar could be after the body of Riggby that is coming to the city soon. So I do agree with Morrow, we need more information to solve this riddle."
The party does recall that the body of Riggby passed through the city a few days ago, on the 4th. To your knowledge, the body still lies in state within the Temple of Boccob. Those who accompanied the gnome bard saw the famous cleric borne along the street in a litter:
Glorb is eager to watch the procession of Riggby and drags anyone that shows the slightest interest in watching as well to accompany him to the Processional. Those who bear witness are awed at the massive crowds that clog the streets of Greyhawk, and though it looks like a parade there is a solemn silence as the famous cleric of Boccob is borne along the wide thoroughfare about two hours after noon. A good number of priests and armed guards accompany the bearers that carry the heavy-looking platform along the Processional. Riggby is displayed for all to behold, clad in blue robes, his long white hair flowing upon the soft velvet padding upon which he is laid. Though his skin is pale in death, it is obvious that magic has been used to preserve his body against the ignoble decay that would otherwise mar his peaceful state. It nearly looks as though he is merely sleeping, though the tears and cries of those that bear witness to his passage speak otherwise.
Morrow nods agreement with Verdan, "Let's talk with Ricard. A drink and a bite to eat would go well, and we're not running off to the Castle right now anyway."
Approaching Ricard with a smile Morrow motions the man close so he won't have to yell over the sounds in the inn. "Ricard. We could all use a bit of drink and food, and a room for the night a bit later. But also, would you happen to know where Captain Gallancz might be? We're interested in returning to the Castle and thought we might speak to him to see if he knows anything that we haven't already learned."
Reonnyn pipes up, "Forgive us for being presumptuous here. We know he probably values his privacy here but we would beg his forgiveness here, as we do have some tales we can swap in exchange!" He chuckles lightly, "He sounds like a man who would enjoy our company!"
"Yes, we have been told that he might have some information for us, could you please give us a hand in finding him?" Verdan offers up.
Morgrym stands back with a watchful eye on the crowd and with his back on the wall of a building chewing a grain straw nonchalantly.
Ricard grins at the adventurers and nods his head. "Aye, Captain Gallancz? Damn, can't believe I haven't introduced you lot to him yet! I've seen him around the past few nights and I'm sure he'll be back again tonight! I'll be sure and introduce you to him this time around. He does love a good story, and he's got a few of his own to be sure!"
As the adventurers enter the Green Dragon Inn Reonnyn eyes the one who is holding the gem. "We need to make...arrangements with this prize we have earned! Flaunting this gem will draw every two bit thief and sell-sword within 50 miles onto our arses...we need to figure out a place to secure this bauble!"
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
Cold, with clear skies.
Current time is a couple hours after sunset.
-------------------------------------------------
Reonnyn’s concern about the gem is met with some amount of indifference and for now they keep it with them, stuffed carefully into the halfling’s backpack. The group spends the next several hours cleaning their gear and going over plans of how to deal with the mysterious Captain Gallancz until the sun sets and they head down to the common room. As usual, night brings the rowdy crowds and several folk are already deep in their cups while others are just getting started. Catching Ricard’s eye, the adventurers get drinks and food before the dark-haired tavern owner snaps his fingers suddenly. “Oh! I knew I was forgetting something… You all wanted to meet Gallancz, right? OY! MON CAPITAN!” Ricard bellows over the heads of the patrons, his tone one of friendly mockery.
A middle-aged man with a bushy blond hair and beard turns his head at the booming hail. The fellow is robust and quite tall, perhaps six inches over six feet and broad-shouldered. He is clad in chain armor with a heavy helm that sits upon his brow and a deep red military cloak trimmed in gold upon which are pinned a handful of medals. He appears to have been deeply appreciating a likely raunchy joke for he is laughing uproariously, his blue eyes sparkling with delight as Ricard beckons him over. The big soldier nods and says something to the trio of carousers he’d been joking with and makes his way over to the party.
“My friends,” Ricard speaks to the group. “This is Captain Gallancz, my former commanding officer at the Battle of Emridy Meadows and a good friend to this day. Though who’d have thought that, eh Captain? I do believe you had me pegged as more of a jokester than a soldier at times.” The bar owner grins as he slaps Gallancz on his broad shoulder. The red-cloaked officer returns the grin and grips Ricard’s neck in a squeeze that looks to be on the verge of being painful. “Nonsense! I’m fair certain I beat any such tendencies toward insubordinate behavior out of your hide within the first week! You were a fine soldier thereafter, my left hand to Heironeous!”
Ricard beams at Gallancz and continues when the big man releases his brief hold on his neck. “Ah well, I suppose you’re right at that! At the very least I didn’t manage to spoil any of your fine victories on the field of battle! Captain, I’d like you to meet some very good friends of mine I’ve made in the past week. Reunited me with my blade they did! I told you about the orc ambush that I managed to sleep through? Well, these fine men tracked down the foul miscreants and slaughtered them as they cowered in their hideout, thinking themselves safe from retribution. Ha!” Introducing each of the adventurers in turn, he finally heaves a sigh and moves in the direction of the bar. “Well, no rest for the wicked as they say. My girls seem to require a bit more direction and I suppose I should lend a hand in appeasing this thirsty crowd! Captain, I do believe you’ll quite enjoy their stories, if you haven’t heard them already by word of mouth.”
Gallancz raises an eyebrow and nods enthusiastically. “Indeed? Well, you know me too well my friend! Bring us all a round, and put it on my tab!” Ricard raises a thumbs up as he strides away and the big man turns again to regard the heroes. “Well then, let’s hear these tales of adventure and derring-do! Such talk makes the evening pass most admirably – especially when accompanied by good drink and food!”
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54
Reonnyn smiles broadly as he settles into his cushioned chair, "I'll take a mug of your finest mead for starters good Captain! Yes our last expedition went quite well as our new patron Ricard has said...nothing like a delve into the cursed dungeons under Castle Greyhawk to win you respect from all of our most adoring patrons," he adds as he grins broadly. "Of course without my sharp blade" pointing down to his small rapier, "I daresay our bones would even now be littering that cold tone floor still!" He leans back and take a long drought of his mead wiping his cheek afterwards.
Well, now the hook is set...let us see how hungry you are now Captain...
Morrow relaxes a bit with Reonnyn starting the conversation. Deciding to add a little though he continues where the swashbuckler had left off. "Indeed. There were some perilous encounters there. But I'm sure you had your fair share of those in your exploring years, and the war of course. But I was wondering.... You wouldn't by chance have any information on the other towers there? We may be needing to return to the castle to face an enemy that we believe still inhabits it. Possibly a rather powerful enemy, as he summoned a demon against us as we were finishing one of his generals."
"I'm certain that foray will hold plenty of dangers. But if, say, a reliable map were available? That would help immensely!"
Verdan just sits back and lets the others do the talking while he tries to figure out if the good captain is speaking the truth.
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
Cold, with clear skies.
Current time is a about 2 hours before midnight.
-------------------------------------------------
Gallancz beams at the adventurers and slaps the table with his large, callused hands in enthusiasm. “Aye? Castle Greyhawk? Indeed? Haha! For stories of that place I’ll keep the drinks coming for as long as you speak! I’ve heard that most of the recent forays into that dungeon are lacking in excitement. It appears things have changed, eh? Come, come! Tell me details of the fiends you encountered there!” The Captain is true to his word and pays for both drink and food if the party shares what they saw and did. He pleads ignorance when asked about his own knowledge of the place, but he nods excitedly and asks pointed questions when the adventurers describe their foray into that place.
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54
Reonnyn gorges himself on the free food and libations provided him and proceeds to tell the 'Captain' of their escapades, glossing over some of the details here, before finishing up with the climatic battle against the General. "...and that is how we managed to to put that self-styled 'General' in his place! Still we did find signs he was merely a...pawn for some greater foe..."
Morrow listens and watches, adding to Reonnyn's words "I don't know about you, but after defeating the General and his dragon, that Demon was really worse. It was my first real one though, so maybe I just don't know much!"
Hearing the Captain deny any information about the Castle is disturbing, but he wonders, "Captain, Perhaps you could regale us with some of your campaigns? Have you fought any demons? I've heard stories, but really just glossed over mentions of events. Not really a bard or a student of history you know."
"Yes I am sure you have tales that would make ours pale in comparison." Verdan adds.
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
Cold, with clear skies.
Current time is an hour before midnight.
-------------------------------------------------
Gallancz grins at Reonnyn as the halfling finishes his story. “Ha! A riveting tale of adventure, my stout little friend! A mere pawn, eh? Very often that is the case! My experience at the Battle of Emridy Meadows proved that beyond a shadow of doubt.” When Morrow interjects, the Captain slams his hand down upon the counter again, bellowing in a friendly tone for more ale to be brought, on his tab once again. “Indeed I have, my friends! Have you heard of the Temple of Elemental Evil? Its ruins lie far to the west and south, within the Kron Hills near a small village called Hommlet. Well, the Battle of Emridy Meadows was fought very near there, and it is well known that the Demon Queen Zuggtmoy herself dwelled within that fell place. Ah, I was but one of many officers that fought in that bloody conflict, but we routed the cultists and paved the way for the our allies to lay siege to the temple itself some weeks later! Here then, if you would hear the tale I will relate it to you – though know its telling will see us drinking far into the night!” Taking a deep swig, Captain Gallancz launches into his narrative, obviously relishing the story and attracting more than a few of the other patrons nearby with his storytelling. Though many more details are included in his description, it goes something like this:
It was at dawn when the horde was roused early from their rest by the signal horns of the allies preparing their formations for battle. The packed ranks of the allied contingents were arrayed so that 500 pikemen were protected on their flank by the Velverdyva River while at the center was displayed the colorful banners of 400 light cavalry and 100 heavy cavalry led by Thrommel himself. Finally, on the allied left were deployed blocks of 200 Lortmil dwarves and 100 Kron Hill gnomes, with about 50 elven archers of clan Meldarin positioned in between. The Horde of Elemental Evil was comprised of two forces. On the hordes’ left flank rode 550 human cavalry made up of bandits and Nulbish thugs with little experience in warfare beyond raiding lightly defended caravan trains. To the bandit’s right was a much larger force of humanoid infantry, a host of 3500 orcs drawn from the dark forests to the southeast and even the very depths of the Oerth. Also among them howled frenzied warbands of gnolls some 500 strong, and towering over all nearly 20 crudely armed ogres culled by the Temple from the surrounding wilds to provide heavy support.
With reckless abandon the cultist lieutenants commanded their human cavalry ranks to engage the right flank and center of the allied forces, not that the rabble of humanoids gave them much choice. The majority of the Horde immediately charged the allied left flank once they saw the shields and heard the taunts of their traditional enemies. The enraged mass of humanoids was allowed to push aside the smaller demi-human ranks in a hasty attempt to encircle the rest of the allied army. Thrommel’s pikemen and screening cavalry also allowed the charging bandit cavalry to penetrate their line leaving them between the bend of the Velverdyva River and packed in with the encircling mob of humanoids. This of course sprung the trap planned by the Prince. At once the whole allied army pivoted counter-clockwise to encircle the Horde in this pocket. As Thrommel’s knights quickly turned to counter-attack the humanoid main body from the rear, 150 more elven warriors came from hidden reserve in the Gnarley Forest to close the killing arc. With their backs to the river and their leadership in disarray, the Horde of Elemental Evil was completely routed. While most fought to the death, scattered groups did manage to break out of the allied lines only to be hunted down or drowned in flight. However some survivors were allowed to flee south back to their Temple as a message of what was to come next.
After the field was won Prince Thrommel wasted little time in rallying his weary troops and collecting their fallen. The most storied among those slain at Emridy was Serten of St. Cuthbert who fell during the final moments of the battle zealously defending the Prince to his last breath.
Many of the nearby patrons cheer and clash their mugs together as Gallancz finishes his tale, even Ricard Damaris stands near, absently cleaning a mug as he sketches a salute at his former Captain. Then the big soldier yawns and stretches, setting down his empty mug with a rueful expression. “Alas, sleep beckons and I must tarry no longer, if I am to engage in my training tomorrow morning. It has been a pleasure swapping stories with adventurers such as yourselves. Sleep well my friends, and may your swords always stay sharp!”
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54
Morgrym pounds the table at the master stroke of tactics and nods as he listens to the tale of defending ones charge. He drinks another ale for his lost men the general bled on the arena floor and wipes his face holding back the sadness of his comrades loss. After composing himself he takes another drink and nods to at the idea of sleep.
Morrow listens to the story, very similar to what he's heard from young bards wanting to earn a coin for a drink. He does feel that it is strange that the man didn't include any of his own actions in the battle.... He didn't seem particularly humble. However, since there was nothing really of note he accepts that it is indeed getting late and perhaps he should be off to bed as well.
Reonnyn pounds his mug on the table in appreciation for the well-crafted tale and lets out a huge yawn, feeling the effects of the food and drink on his body. Nodding to his companions he motions to the barmaid who kept him company for the evening before.
Noting about his tale rings falsely...but again I know little of these events. Perhaps we can track down his companions who also fought during the Battle of Emridy Meadows...
As the captain tells his tale. Verdan tries to remember the facts of the great battle. Smiling as the tale is being told.
As the tale is being told Verdan takes a look around to see if perhaps there is another in the bar that could have been at the battle and the good captain could be reading that man/woman's mind.
But none of those patrons who look old enough to be in that battle, have the look of a warrior that he can see.
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
Cold, with clear skies.
Current time is an hour before midnight.
-------------------------------------------------
The Battle of Emridy Meadows is certainly well known to students of history, and Verdan’s recollection of the events as outlined in the stories does seem to match what the Captain tells – and in fact the tactics used were quite masterful and explained quite well during the narrative, as though told by someone who actually fought there. Or at least witnessed it.
Other than Ricard (who served under Captain Gallancz during that battle, as they had heard earlier that evening when they were introduced to the older officer), the cleric doesn’t spot anyone who responded in a manner that might indicate they had fought there as well.
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54
As Reonnyn climbs into his bed prepared to sleep off his excesses, he reflects on what he has learned so far of the Captain...which is to say, little.
Looks like this will be a challenge to unravel this conundrum. The Captain seemed little interested in our bait...I wonder if perhaps the Monks are misleading us here...still they did pay a pretty price for our assistance He thinks as he fondles the gem closely. Perhaps checking into the reputation of the Captain further is warranted...
Just as the captain walks out the door says.
"We should fallow to see were he goes.
If no one goes Dalron will try his hand as a Rouge and try and keep tabs on the captain.
So I guess he tries and hold the hand of the Captain as they go down the street.
Was hoping to post before I head out for a vacation, but might not get the chance. I'll be back on Friday and will post then if I don't get it tonight. :)
Have a great time on you trip.
Sorry for delay! Didn't get the chance to post over the weekend, unfortunately. I'll try to update the adventure this week before Friday!
Looks like Verdan is going it alone, eh?
Freeday, 7th day of , 594 C.Y.
Cold, with clear skies.
Current time is nearing midnight.
-------------------------------------------------
Reonnyn and the others head to their rooms as Verdan finishes his glass of wine slowly, pondering what Captain Gallancz has said. Could he truly be the infamous Robilar? Companion of Rary, the nefarious betrayer of the Circle of Eight? The big soldier shares a laugh with Ricard and claps the barkeep on the shoulder before heading out into the night. Verdan shakes his head and, perhaps emboldened by drink and his own hard-headed determination, buckles on his weapon belt and heads out after Gallancz, trailing the older officer after giving him what he feels is a big enough lead that he won’t be spotted.
Alas, as the cleric rounds a corner he is brought up short as he sees Captain Gallancz leaning up against the wooden wall of a building about ten feet away. Verdan is very aware that he is within easy reach of a quick step and a killing thrust of the big sword that the warrior has sheathed at his side. The dark eyes of Captain Gallancz are firmly fixed upon Verdan, as though he had been waiting for the cleric to step around the corner – like a spider waiting for an unwary insect to fly into its web.
But the older soldier only smiles as he lights a cigar, then offers a second one to Verdan with an arched eyebrow. “A good night for a smoke, don’t you think? I try not to indulge too often, but after a good meal, even better drink and a glorious few hours of storytelling, I can’t seem to restrain myself. Were you… ahh… perhaps following me to request another story? I have many, you know. Some of them end heroically, others are… rather tragic tales. Adventurers, as a whole, can be amazingly brave at times and incredibly foolish in the next moment. Wouldn’t you agree?” Gallancz exhales a sweet smelling plume of smoke around the cigar he holds in his clenched teeth as he continues to offer the other for the rather stunned Verdan to take. In his other hand, he holds a very small, thin rectangular cube that appears to be made of shiny stone with a tiny gadget crafted into the top surface. A single flame dances lazily from the device, and Gallancz is apparently holding it ready to light the proffered cigar should you take him up on the offer.
----------------------------------------------
Ruins of Castle Greyhawk (Overview)
Map History of the Ruins of Castle Greyhawk
----------------------------------------------
PC Health & Notes
Cona 59/59
Reonnyn 59/59 [ +2 to STR, DEX & CON for 4 minutes; +1 luck bonus to all saving throws, ability checks and skill checks (Luck Stone); +6 to Bluff, Diplomacy & Intimidate checks (Invocation)]
Morrow 68/68
Morgrym 68/68
Verdan 54/54